The Big Knitathon opens for registration

The Big Issue Foundation is hoping to break a world record with its Big Knitathon.

Whether you're seasoned pro or you fancy picking up knitting needles for the first time, the charity is looking to recruit as many participants as possible for its sponsored event.

This is a great opportunity to be part of something massive, literally, as it is aiming to beat the previous Guinness World Record for the largest number of people knitting simultaneously.

The charity is asking everyone to knit 6inch squares and send them into to The Big Issue Foundation so that they can be sewn together to make a giant Big Knitathon quilt.

As well as the enormous patchwork blanket, you can knit hats and scarves on eBay to help raise money for the organisation, or perhaps even set up a charity stall on behalf of the Big Issue to sell your knitted creations, or the products of your stitch'n'bitch group.

There are Knitathons taking place across the country, which you can find on the Big Issue website, but you don't have to join existing groups as you're just as welcome to set up your own.

These could be run from a community centre, craft shop, library, café or even your front room and there are plenty of downloadable packs and posters you can take from the charity's website, allowing you to advertise.

There's also some printable bunting to help you decorate, square knitting patterns and planning guides to help you make the most of the event.

Registration is open now but the actual event will take place across the country on Saturday November 17th from 14:00 (GMT) onwards.

There are no minimum sponsorship targets, it's up to you really, but all the money raised will be sent to support some of the most vulnerable people in the UK, on behalf of the Big Issue Foundation.